The Evolution of the Nation of Islam

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Abstract

The change from Elijah Poole to Elijah Muhammad began a long and intricate
development of a socioeconomic and religious movement that proved to fully
transform radical Black Nationalism from a mere aggregate of para-militarists to an
internationally recognized organization of liberation. By observing the four main
leaders of the Nation of Islam: Elijah Muhammad; Malcolm X; Wallace Muhammad;
and Louis Farrakhan, it can be seen that a definite agenda is put forward by each
leader's particular 'revelation'. From the four leaders arise two distinct groups of
ideals, as exhibited in their messages and programs, with Louis on the right hand of
Elijah, and Wallace beside Malcolm. From theology and political philosophy to basic
economic and social policies, the movements of Elijah and Farrakhan greatly differ
from those of Malcolm and Wallace. These differences are attributable to sociological
realties of the congregants, as well as the social and religious milieu from which the leaders speak.